These days, every industry seems to be focused around personalized or “boutique” services that will lure in high-paying clients for exclusive services.
Even the medical industry is not immune — particularly where medicine and cosmetic services overlap. Dermatologists, dentists, plastic surgeons, OB-GYNs, urogynecologists and others have all started offering cosmetic procedures in spa-like settings.
If you’re interested in any of these services, however, it’s “buyer beware.”
Ask a lot of questions before submitting to cosmetic surgery
Not every spa that offers specialized cosmetic procedures is properly licensed and accredited for the procedures they offer. Many of them operate under the radar of the authorities — until someone gets hurt or the authorities catch wind of their activities.
For example, just this year, two Nevada medical providers had their licenses suspended. One is accused of illegally administering sedation to at least 72 people for “invasive surgical procedures” at the spa (and then falsifying their medical records). The is accused of violating several codes, including the use of “conscious sedation” without the appropriate permits and accreditation.
Nevada’s medical board issues a warning to consumers
According to the executive director of the state medical board, “Both the unlicensed practice of medicine and the performance of invasive and potentially dangerous surgical procedures at unaccredited facilities is a growing problem in Nevada.” The board’s director went on to say that patients have been seriously injured and suffered infections and more at these unlicensed or unaccredited facilities.
If you intend to seek any kind of cosmetic procedure at a medical boutique or spa that will require anesthesia, ask a lot of questions and get proof of accreditation. If you have been hurt by a negligent medical provider during a cosmetic procedure, you have the right to seek redress for your losses. Find out more about how medical malpractice claims work so you can assert your rights.
